to begin with

Thân thiện

To begin with, we need to gather all the necessary materials.

Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Firstly; as the first point or reason: Used to introduce the first item in a list or the primary reason for something.
   • At the start; initially: Refers to the situation that existed at the beginning of a process or period.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • To begin with, I would like to thank everyone for coming. (Used to introduce the first point in a speech.)
  • We didn't like the house. To begin with, it was too small, and secondly, it was too far from town. (Used to list the first reason.)
  • It was very difficult to begin with, but it got easier later. (Refers to the initial state of a situation.)

Advanced Usage

• "To begin with" as a discourse marker: Often used in formal and informal speaking or writing to structure an argument or list, signaling that the first and often most important point is being made.
  • There are several problems with this plan. To begin with, it's far too expensive.

Variants and Related Words

• Begin (verb): To start.
• Beginning (noun): The point in time or space at which something starts.

Synonyms

• Firstly
• First of all
• In the first place
• Initially

Related Phrases

• For a start: An informal synonym often used in conversation.
  • I can't come. For a start, I don't have any money.

Notes on Meaning

• The phrase "to begin with" is often used to emphasize that a particular fact was true from the start, sometimes as a justification or explanation for a later situation or opinion. It can carry a slight tone of frustration or obviousness, as in the reference example: ""

Học thuật

Adverb

1. before now
   • why didn't you tell me in the first place?

Từ đồng nghĩa

• in the first place
• earlier
• in the beginning
• originally